zi6 si1自私
Jyutpingzi6 si1
Yalejih sī
Definition
Selfish, self-seeking, and only caring about oneself without considering others.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Often used as a direct criticism of someone's character, this word carries a strong negative weight in social interactions. It is frequently paired with the particle 咁 to emphasize the degree of selfishness. Unlike formal written Chinese, it is rarely used in a clinical or neutral sense, functioning almost exclusively as an accusation.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
self-centred and greedy
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with 孤寒, which specifically refers to being stingy or cheap with money. While a stingy person is often perceived as selfish, 自私 is a broader term for a lack of consideration for others, not just a reluctance to spend money.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
